A graduate of the Munster Rugby Academy, Sweetnam joined the provincial set-up at the start of the 2012/13 season after impressing for Munster U20s in the Interprovincial series.

The 20 year old commenced his rugby career with Dunmanway RFC, before making the move to senior club side UCC for season 2012/13. He now makes the move to Dolphin RFC for next season.

His involvement in the Irish U20s 6 Nation's campaign was his first representation at national age-grade rugby and he made 4 appearances including his first start against Italy. He then joined the U20s at the JWC in France and scored two tries on his first outing against Fiji.

Sweetnam also made his Munster A debut in the B&I Cup against Plymouth Albion in January 2013.

Darren is widely know in Cork for his hurling credentials playing with club side Dohenys GAA and lining out for the Cork Senior Hurlers in the Allianz League and the Championship in 2012. He also represented Ireland in hockey at U16s.

Played for a Munster 7’s side at the Limerick World Club 7s Festival in Thomond Park, August 2014.

Represented the Munster senior team in pre-season action, August 2014 - away to Gloucester and a week later in the SEAT Challenge against London Irish at the Waterford RSC.

Made his league debut against Cardiff Blues in Irish Independent Park, February 2014.

Joined the senior ranks in Season 2015/16, signing a new two-year contract, moving to development status for 2015/16 and a full contract for 2016/17.

The 2015 Munster Rugby Awards, in association with the Irish Independent, will take place on Thursday April 30th at The Maryborough Hotel in Cork and the nominations for Senior Player and Academy Player of the Year have now been finalised.